Suddenly, it’s Fall. As a pool owner, your biggest question may be “When is it time to close my pool?”
And that’s a very good question. Industry experts generally agree to “close late and open early.” Closing your pool too early can lead to trouble.
If you’ve closed your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals added will probably not last until spring; pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures than in cooler ones. Then, when spring’s warmer weather arrives, it can cause algae growth and staining. Opening your pool may be an unpleasant surprise, and a lot more work than you may have anticipated.
Closing your pool largely depends on your region. While temperatures in your area have the potential to peak into the high 70s or low 80s, you may want to keep your pool open and maintained as usual.
Remember the 60s
When the water temperature is consistently below 60 degrees, it’s time to close your pool. Once the pool water temperature drops below 60 degrees, microorganisms and algae cannot grow and become dormant for the winter season. This decreases the likelihood of algae growth, helps with your pool water’s overall chemistry and causes fewer issues in the spring when you open the pool.
Whether winter temperatures in your region stay in the 50s and 60s or dip to sub-zero, cooler temperatures have a considerable effect on your pool water. And no matter where you live, every pool owner’s goal is the same: Protect your pool from damage due to cool – or freezing – temperatures. Take good care of your pool now, and when spring and summer roll around, opening it up will be much easier, quicker, and likely, less expensive.